Assessment of subclinical cardiovascular risk in systemic lupus erythematosus utilizing carotid ultrasound and clinical evaluation

Abstract

Objective

To compare and correlate cardiovascular risk (CVR) factors through ultrasound findings, clinical, and laboratory variables.

Methods

37 patients underwent ultrasound assessment, with CVR clinical scores applied: Framingham and QRISK-3 (Risk for Increased Cardiovascular Disease in SLE). The SLEDAI (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index) assessed systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) activity.

Results

Statistically significant correlations were observed between the Framingham score, QRISK-3, and carotid artery diameter, with QIMT RF and expected values. Correlation coefficients ranged from 0.45 to 0.84, and p-values from 0.01 to <0.01. In linear regression analysis, variables influencing expected QIMT included QRISK-3, age, statin use, and diabetes mellitus, with p-values from 0.034 to <0.001. For QIMT RF, age and the Framingham score showed influence, with p-values from 0.028 to 0.004. SLEDAI did not significantly impact ultrasonographic parameters.

Conclusion

Carotid ultrasound was associated with in the subclinical detection of CVR in this cohort, providing complementary data to clinical evaluations.